How to transform unused spaces into workspaces

Whether it's a small attic space, a stretch of spare wall or a little nook under the stairs, many of us have an area in our homes forever nagging us with its untapped potential.

But with a little thought, you could turn one of these nooks or crannies into a stylish, fully-functional home office, enabling you to take advantage of those much-needed work from home days, lose the commute and score big on that all-important work-life balance.

We asked Tegan Klusenberg, interior designer and co-founder of graphics, interior and building design company Klustreet Designs, to share her top tips for turning a dead area into a functional workspace.

Set a budget

One of the first steps is to determine a budget and stick to it. Avoid getting carried away with fun office accessories, Tegan warns. "It's easy to shop for your office and then realise you have 50 nice pens, five leather notepads, a cool lamp but nothing to put it on."

Work out which elements will make you most productive in that space and focus on those first.

Find the right spot

To pick the perfect place for your home office, think outside the box and consider parts of the home that are generally under-utilised.

"A laundry room, a pantry — even a little-used linen cupboard, can make a great office alcove," says Tegan. "If the space is wide enough to fit a small desk and a couple of overhead shelves, that's essentially all you need."

Be open-minded, but also practical. A corner of the kitchen may offer conveniences but how likely are you to get distracted? You also might want to consider things like power points, natural light and privacy.

If you’re struggling to find a location, consider some of the following spaces to work with.

Under the stairs

A tasteful under-stairs work station can become a feature of the property in its own right. Bear in mind that these spaces need to be kept neat and tidy due to their high visibility.

"Build shelves around your desk to create a beautiful bookcase and organise your items in nice boxes. Accessorise with small plants and smart stationery," Says Tegan.

For an area of unused wall, perhaps on your landing or hallway, create a boundary around your dedicated work station with potted plants, bookcases or a funky wall organiser (we love this one from The Minimalist). Look at using freestanding desks which don't bind to walls such as this Indiana One Drawer Desk from Officeworks, which will keep the space flexible if it's needed for other uses.

If short on space, consider installing a stylish ladder-rack unit like the Madison Wall Desk by Casa Uno, which props up against a wall and can either be anchored or left portable. Alternatively, opt for a floating desk that best fits the home décor.

Spare wardrobe

Transform a little-used closet or cupboard into a workspace by taking off the doors and lining the walls with patterned wallpaper, cork tiles or chalkboard for a bold and functional design statement. Or, brighten the area with a few licks of paint.

"It's a cost effective way of updating any space," says Tegan, who recommends painting with calming colours.

"I always love white. Yellow is also said to promote creativity so invest in a yellow notepad or have a hint of it in your space." In terms of furniture, try a folding wall-mounted desk such as this one by BoConcept for a more compact study space.

Top tip: If the cupboard is deep enough, keep the doors on so you can close them at the end of the day or hook up a simple, stylish curtain.

Granny flat

This is where your workplace can really come into its own. It's worth making your office feel distinct from the rest of your house, so that you can separate work from leisure, but ensure it feels warm and comfortable too.

"Spend time seeking out accessories for your home office that are both aesthetic and functional. Having nice 'office-wares' can really help boost productivity, creating a more welcoming work space that you're happy to sit at all day," Tegan says.

"If you have the space, add in a small side table where you can have tea and coffee, or create a kitchenette so you don't have to keep going back into the house."

If you have a big, open plan living space or perhaps just an empty corner, throw up some free standing room dividers and create a flexible, movable workspace that can offer up a host of other benefits too.

Light up: Always have a good task light on or above your space to prevent eye strain, combat tiredness and help you stay alert. Consult your local lighting shop for the best options depending on your space and work needs.

Invest in a good chair: "It's better to outlay a bit more money on an ergonomic task chair than to pick the pretty dining chair. It's so important your back and neck are properly supported."

Get in some greenery: "I love having small (and sometimes big!) plants around me because it raises the oxygen levels and creates a more inviting space. Calatheas and Devil's Ivy are great indoor plants and don't need direct sunlight to survive.

For more office inspiration, check out the range of quality products at Officeworks in store or at Officeworks.com.au